Young Carers Takeover project

Healthwatch Northamptonshire undertook research on the emotional wellbeing of young carers. They spoke to 85 young carers aged 11 to 19 between December 2019 and February 2020 as part of a project delivered jointly with Northamptonshire Young Carers Service. Nearly two-thirds of respondents said their caring role affected their emotional wellbeing or mental health, and young carers rated their wellbeing at an average of 5.7 out of 10. 

The research found that while 65% of young carers knew where to access support, only 45% had used a support service for emotional wellbeing or mental health. Long waiting times were the most common barrier to accessing help, while other concerns included not receiving enough support, services not understanding their issues and difficulties attending appointments. Many young carers also reported having their own long-term health condition or disability alongside caring responsibilities.

Young carers said they would most like access to basic counselling, self-help and coping strategies, support groups and one-to-one listening support. Schools and youth clubs were the preferred locations for receiving support. Feedback highlighted feelings of isolation, the pressure of supporting family members while managing their own wellbeing, and the need for professionals to better understand the experiences of young carers.

Healthwatch Northamptonshire recommended listening to young carers when designing services, providing additional emotional wellbeing and mental health support tailored to their needs, involving young carers in service design and improving identification of young carers by healthcare professionals. The report concluded that young carers bring valuable insight to health and care services but require better recognition and support to protect their own wellbeing.